The Stevens Transport Roadside Radio Podcast - Episode 82

Stevens Roundtable: Rachel Easley Discusses Hazmat Hauling: Unlock a $100 to $150 Bonus and Boost Your Earnings! highlights the increasing demand for hazmat load transportation and discusses incentives for drivers to add hazmat endorsements to their licenses. She also walks through the process of obtaining these endorsements, emphasizing support from Stevens to drivers navigating this addition. Furthermore, the conversation touches on important administrative updates, such as the integration of digital permit access and payroll statement improvements within the Workday platform, demonstrating Stevens Transport's commitment to embracing technology for driver convenience. Key Takeaways: Stevens Transport has seen an uptick in hazmat loads and urges drivers to get their hazmat endorsement with a $100 bonus incentive if completed by March 31 along with an additional $150 per hazmat load hauled. The permits link on the Platform Science app has been a game-changer, allowing drivers to digitally access required permits, although physical IFTA stickers are still needed until February's end. Drivers are reminded of the importance of keeping their CDL and Workday information updated, especially in the context of address changes or state transfers of a CDL. The Workday platform has resolved initial payroll statement issues and will also house the W-2s come tax season, streamlining the administrative process remarkably. For DOT physicals, drivers need to be proactive, monitoring their medical card expiration and coordinating with their driver managers to schedule physicals in advance, potentially at approved over-the-road clinics within the Exam VIP network Rachel Easley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ra....chel-easley-49012912 Paragon Leasing Focuses on Career Development for Technicians In this conversation with Nick Forte, Joseph Hinkle discusses his role as Senior Director of Maintenance at Paragon Leasing and provides insight into the challenges and rewards of managing the workflow in maintenance shops. With a focus on Paragon Leasing and the dedication required in a leadership position, this episode offers listeners a unique glimpse into the often-overlooked yet crucial component of the trucking industry: effective maintenance operations. Joseph delves into how he supports technicians with training, parts sourcing, and mentoring, emphasizing the importance of growth and development in the workplace. The discussion revolves around the significance of creating a career path for technicians that not only helps them progress but also ensures quality service for drivers. The newly implemented tech scale is a focal point, promising to foster technician growth and boost overall clinic efficiency. Key Takeaways: Joseph Hinkle's background is deeply rooted in both the mechanical and trucking industries, which equips him with a unique perspective for his role in maintenance management. Hands-on mentoring and fostering technician growth are core philosophies Hinkle practices to ensure his team is well-equipped for the challenges in the maintenance field. The new tech scale initiative at Paragon Leasing aims to provide clear career growth pathways for technicians, ensuring staff retention and service quality. Technician recruitment, training, and development are pivotal to creating a robust maintenance team capable of delivering top-notch services to drivers. Joseph and Nick are committed to further improving the Paragon Leasing experience in 2024, focusing on technician career development and